If you’re looking for an all-electric luxury crossover SUV that has a range that’s capable of reaching destinations beyond the city you live in, the Tesla Model X is your huckleberry. It’s also an incredibly unique vehicle beyond its powertrain, with the upward-opening falcon wing doors, seven seats, and one of the largest windshields on the market.
What's New for 2019
There are no new features for the 2019 model year, but Tesla sends over-the-air updates to their vehicles, in a very similar way to how your smartphone receives periodic software updates.
Choosing Your Tesla Model X
The Tesla Model X doesn’t come with a choice of engines, but rather a choice of battery output style. The Long Range Model X starts at $90,700 (all prices include the $1,200 destination charge), while the Performance Model X is priced from $105,200.
The difference between these trims is largely in how the batteries put out power. The Long Range sacrifices some acceleration power for a slightly longer range of 295 miles, according to the EPA. Meanwhile, the Performance gets from zero to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds with a range of 289 miles.
The acceleration of the Performance can be made even faster with the inclusion of the $20,000 Ludicrous Mode, which brings the Model X’s zero-to-60 mph time down to an amazing 2.8 seconds.
Both versions use the same dual-motor all-wheel-drive systems and have largely the same styled premium interior and sound system. All Model X models also receive an air filtration system that uses HEPA and carbon air purification filters, an ultra-quiet cabin, XM satellite radio, heated seats for all passengers, a heated steering wheel, and ventilated seats.
The Model X comes standard with a five-seat interior, but a six- and seven-seat interior is available for an extra $6,000 and $3,000, respectively. The seven-seat interior adds two extra seats in the rear, while the six-seat interior adds the extra row and replaces the middle bench with captain’s chairs.
The Model X also has access to Tesla’s acclaimed Autopilot feature, which is one of the more advanced semi-autonomous driving systems available on the market today. The feature costs $3,000 up front, or it can be added retroactively to your vehicle for $4,000 if you decide you want it later.
There’s also what Tesla calls “Full Self-Driving Capability” for $5,000, which will navigate on autopilot from highway on-ramp to off-ramp, navigating around slower cars and through interchanges. It will also park itself in both parallel and perpendicular spaces and will come find you anywhere in the parking lot on your own when summoned. Tesla also says they will be continuing to update features for this suite as they develop, including future city street capability and the ability to recognize traffic lights and stop signs.
We would be remiss to not put somewhat of a disclaimer on Tesla’s claims about the Autopilot suite and the ability for the Model X to drive itself. The technology isn't perfect, and it still requires you to pay attention to what’s going on outside the vehicle.
All these options are available on both the Long Range and the Performance models, so choose whatever style best suites your wants and need
Unless you must have the bragging rights associated with Ludicrous Mode and the Performance trim, stick with the Long Range 2019 Tesla Model X. It’ll still do zero to 60 in less than five seconds, which is faster than most luxury SUVs on the road today, and you’ll save almost $15,000.